Adjustable base for ball throwing machine

ABSTRACT

A base is provided for a ball throwing machine having a T-shaped frame. The base includes: a lower frame; an upper frame pivotally connected to the lower frame so as to be moveable through a range of elevation angles relative to the lower frame, and including one or more brackets configured to receive the T-shaped frame of the throwing machine; and an adjustment mechanism configured to releasably secure the upper frame at a selected elevation angle within the range.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to practice aids for baseball and similar games, and more particularly to pitching and ball throwing machines therefor.

In practicing the games of baseball and softball, it is often necessary to project a ball repetitively in a high, arcing trajectory. For example, it may be desired to simulate “high fly balls” or “pop-up balls” hit by a batter. As used herein the term “high, arcing trajectory” refers to a ball flight path which initially extends at a high angle to the surface of the Earth and has a substantial vertical component, as opposed to a “low” trajectory ball flight path, which initially extends at a low angle to the surface of the Earth and has a lesser vertical component. While the terms “high” and “low” are relative, it will be understood that baseball players and coaches have an accepted understanding of the distinction between a “low” trajectory, as would occur in a ball thrown from a pitcher to a batter, or in a “line drive” hit by a batter, and a “high” trajectory, as would occur in “high fly balls” or “pop-up balls” hit by a batter.

The type of high, arcing trajectory needed for fielding practice is difficult for a coach to simulate. The coach must either throw the balls or hit them to the fielders with a bat. Either process produces inconsistent results and is tiring.

Various types of ball throwing machines (also referred to interchangeably as “pitching machines”) are known. Such machines utilize a mechanical or electrical mechanism to propel a ball. Known pitching machines are consistent and alleviate the need for physical effort. However, pitching machines are optimized for simulating pitches to a batter, and are therefore not capable of producing the high, arching trajectory needed for fielding practice, even when set to a maximum angle adjustment.

Accordingly, there is a need for a machine that can mechanically throw balls having a high, arcing trajectory for fielding practice.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

This need is addressed by the present invention, which provides a base that receives and supports a conventional ball throwing machine. The base has an adjustable elevation angle and enables the ball throwing machine to produce high arcing ball trajectories.

According to one aspect of the invention, a base is provided for a ball throwing machine having a T-shaped frame. The base includes: a lower frame; an upper frame pivotally connected to the lower frame so as to be moveable through a range of elevation angles relative to the lower frame, and including one or more brackets configured to receive the T-shaped frame of the throwing machine; and an adjustment mechanism configured to releasably secure the upper frame at a selected elevation angle within the range.

According to another aspect of the invention, a ball throwing apparatus includes: a ball throwing machine having a T-shaped frame, with means for throwing a ball mounted thereon; and a base, including: a lower frame; an upper frame pivotally connected to the lower frame so as to be moveable through a range of elevation angles relative to the lower frame, and including one or more brackets that secure the T-shaped frame of the throwing machine to the upper frame; and an adjustment mechanism configured to releasably secure the upper frame at a selected elevation angle within the range.

According to another aspect of the invention, a ball throwing apparatus includes: a ball throwing machine comprising a beam including forward and aft ends, the beam having with means for throwing a ball mounted thereon; and a base, comprising: a lower frame; an upper frame pivotally connected to the lower frame so as to be moveable through a range of elevation angles relative to the lower frame, wherein the upper frame includes: a transverse upper forward cross rail disposed at a front end of the upper frame, the upper forward cross rail having a threaded first fastener fixedly attached thereto; an aft bracket disposed at a rear end of the upper frame, the aft bracket defining a forward- facing pocket which receives the aft end of the frame; a threaded second fastener engaging the first fastener and the forward end of the beam, thereby holding the forward end of the beam against the upper forward cross rail; and an adjustment mechanism configured to releasably secure the upper frame at a selected elevation angle within the range.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention may be best understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing figures in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art ball throwing machine suitable for use with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an adjustable base constructed according to an aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 2, showing a pivot assembly of the base;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 2, showing an adjustment bracket of the base;

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the base of FIG. 2, showing how a ball throwing machine may be mounted thereto;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 2, showing a rear bracket of the base;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the base of FIG. 2 with a ball throwing machine attached thereto;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portion of the base, showing a retaining strap attached thereto;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternative configuration for attaching a ball throwing machine to a base; and

FIG. 10 is a side view of a portion of the device shown in FIG. 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to the drawings wherein identical reference numerals denote the same elements throughout the various views, FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary prior art ball throwing machine 10 suitable for use with the present invention. This type of machine is commercially marketed as the UPM45 Pitching Machine, available from Louisville Slugger Training Aids, Erlanger, Ky. 41018 USA. While this machine is used as an example, it will be understood that the principles of the present invention are equally applicable to other types of ball throwing machines.

Before further description of the ball throwing machine 10, it is noted that FIGS. 1 and 2 depict an X-Y-Z coordinate axis. As used herein, unless otherwise stated, the terms “axial,” “longitudinal,” “front-rear,” and the like refer to dimensions or directions parallel to the X-axis. Unless otherwise stated, the terms “lateral,” “transverse,” “left-right,” and the like refer to dimensions or directions parallel to the Y-axis. Unless otherwise stated, he terms “vertical,” “up-down,” and the like refer to dimensions or directions parallel to the Z-axis. All of these relative directional terms are used herein for the purposes of description and explanation and do not necessarily imply that any particular orientation of components is required for the invention.

The ball throwing machine 10 includes a T-shaped stationary frame with a beam 12 and a crossbar 14. In a typical model, the beam 12 is secured to the crossbeam 14 via a threaded bolt that incorporates a hand knob 15. In some commercially-available versions of this machine, the distal ends of the crossbar 14 are not exactly horizontal, but instead extend downwards at an angle. A rear end of the beam 12 includes a rear foot 16 defined by a pad of rubber or other non-slip material, and distal ends of the crossbar 14 also include front feet 18 defined by pads of rubber or other non-slip material. Tapered metallic spikes 20 may be mounted on the distal ends of the crossbar 14 so that the frame can be secured into turf or topsoil. A foot lever 22 is pivotally attached to the beam 12. An upright post 24 extends vertically from the beam 12. A throwing arm 26 is pivotally mounted to the post 24. The throwing arm 26 is shaped to receive a ball (not shown) and includes a ball stop 28. A mainspring 30 interconnects the foot lever 22 and the throwing arm 26. A release arm 32 is pivotally mounted to the beam 12, and includes a release bracket 34 shaped to engage the distal end of the throwing arm 26. Collectively, the components mounted to the frame comprise means for throwing a ball.

To prepare the ball throwing machine for use, the throwing arm 26 is rotated backward and the release arm 32 is moved forward such that the release bracket 34 engages the distal end of the throwing arm 26, restraining it from forward motion. The relative dimensions of the post 24, foot lever 22, throwing arm 26, mainspring 30, and release arm 32 are selected such that the mainspring 30 applies a minimal tension, keeping the throwing arm 26 engaged with the release arm 32.

Next, a ball is placed on the throwing arm 26 against the ball stop 28. The user then presses down on the foot lever 22 to extend and tension the mainspring 30. When the user is ready, he pulls the release arm 32 backwards, disengaging the release bracket 34 from the throwing arm 26. This frees the throwing arm 26 to be driven forward under tension from the mainspring 30, throwing the ball forward.

FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary adjustable throwing machine base 100 constructed according to an aspect of the present invention, suitable for mounting the type of throwing machine 10 shown in FIG. 1 and supporting it at varying elevation angles.

The base 100 includes a lower frame 102 which is configured to rest on the ground, and an upper frame 104 which is configured to receive and hold a ball throwing machine 10. The upper frame 104 is pivotally attached to the lower frame 102 so that it can be set at a variety of elevation angles relative to the lower frame 102

More specifically, the lower frame 102 includes two spaced-apart longitudinal lower side rails 106. Each lower side rail 106 includes a front bracket 108 at its forward end, comprising two spaced-apart flanges extending upward from the lower side rail 106, with a pair of coaxial holes formed therethrough. Each lower side rail 106 also includes a pivot bracket 110 at its aft end, comprising two spaced-apart flanges extending upward from the lower side rail, with a pair of coaxial holes formed therethrough. The forward and aft ends of the lower side rails 106 are interconnected by forward and aft lower cross rails, 112 and 114, respectively, so as to form a rectangular frame.

Optionally, the base 100 may incorporate wheels or rollers to facilitate easy transport and positioning. In the illustrated example, a wheel support arm 116 extends upward at an acute angle from the forward end of each lower side rail 106. A wheel 118 is mounted for rotation near the distal end of each wheel support arm 116, for example using the illustrated axle bolts 120. The wheel support arms 116 position the wheels 118 in such a way that they are held away from ground contact during normal use, but may be brought into ground contact by simply lifting up the rear end of the base 100.

Each of the front brackets 108 receives an adjustment post 122 which extends upward. Each adjustment post 122 includes a mounting hole passing transversely through its lower end, and a series of spaced-apart adjustment holes 124 passing transversely therethrough. The adjustment post 122 is pivotally attached to the front bracket 108, for example using the illustrated bolt 126 passing through the mounting hole.

The upper frame 104 includes two spaced-apart upper side rails 128. Each upper side rail 128 includes an elevation bracket 130 at its forward end, comprising two spaced-apart flanges extending forward from the upper side rail 128, with a pair of coaxial holes formed therethrough. Each upper side rail 128 also includes a mounting hole passing transversely through its aft end. The forward and aft ends of the upper side rails 128 are interconnected by forward and aft upper cross rails, 132 and 134, respectively, so as to form a rectangular frame.

FIG. 3 illustrates the connection of the upper frame 104 to the lower frame 102 in more detail. The aft end of each upper side rail 128 is pivotally connected to one of the pivot brackets 110 so that it can pivot in elevation, for example using the illustrated bolts 136. The upper frame 104 is moveable through a range of nonzero, acute elevation angles relative to the lower frame 102.

Also, as seen in FIG. 4, the upper portion of each adjustment post 122 is received in one of the elevation brackets 130. This arrangement allows the upper frame 104 to be pivoted up or down. As it is moved, the elevation brackets 130 slide along the adjustment posts 122. The adjustment posts 122 pivot forward or aft in order to remain in contact with the elevation brackets 130. The upper frame 104 may is releasably secured at a desired height relative to the adjustment post 122. As used herein, the term “releasably secured” refers to a mechanism effective to secure the upper frame 104 to the adjustment post 122 which is intended and configured to be released on a regular basis, and which can be released by manual effort alone or with the minimal use of tools. For example, it does not involve substantial disassembly, cutting, or similar procedures. A latch, clamp, or readily-removable fastener could be used for this purpose. An example of a releasable securement would involve passing a pin or similar fastener through one of the adjustment holes 124 in the post and the matching holes in the elevation bracket 130. In the specific example illustrated, a conventional releasable pin 138 (often called a “hitch pin”) is used for this purpose, as it can be readily secured in place or released using the spring bail 140 that it incorporates.

FIG. 2 shows the upper frame 104 secured in an intermediate position between upper and lower positions. The upper and lower frames define a first elevation angle “ε” (epsilon). Securing the upper frame 104 in higher or lower positions along the adjustment posts 104 will result in higher or lower elevation angles, respectively.

The upper frame 104 is specially configured to receive and securely hold the ball throwing machine 10 with a minimal amount of effort. Specifically, the forward upper cross rail 132 includes two front mounting holes 141 which are sized and shaped to receive the spikes 20 of the ball throwing machine 10.

A forward bracket 142 is carried by each upper side rail 128. The forward brackets 142 are positioned to bear against the distal ends of the crossbar 14.

An aft bracket 144 is carried by the rear upper cross rail 134. It defines a pocket, facing axially forward, which receives the rear foot 16 of the beam 12 and restrains it vertically up and down, laterally left and right, and axially aft. In the illustrated example it is built up from a plurality of short segments of angle stock.

The base 100 may be constructed from any material that is rigid and will support the expected mechanical loads during use, for example metals, plastic, or wood. In the illustrated example, the components of the base 100, such as the rails and brackets, are constructed from mild steel square-section tubing and steel sheet or bar stock, with the joints between components being welded together or connected using conventional mechanical fasteners.

Referring to FIG. 5, to mount the ball throwing machine 10 to the base 100, the rear foot 16 is placed into the aft bracket 144 by sliding the rear foot 16 axially aft into the aft bracket 144 (shown in FIG. 6). The front feet 18 are lowered so that the spikes 20 engage the front mounting holes 141. The forward brackets 142 support the throwing machine against axial movements and yawing movements. The combination of the forward and aft brackets 142 and 144, and the spikes 20 support the ball throwing machine 10 against lateral, vertical, and axial movements. For all practical purposes, the ball throwing machine 10 is completely rigid and stationary relative to the base 100, yet it can be easily removed for transport or storage by simply reversing the mounting process.

Once the ball throwing machine 10 is mounted to the base 100, as shown in FIG. 7, the base 100 can be placed in the desired position and direction by rolling it on the wheels 118. The elevation angle ε can be adjusted by raising or lowering the upper frame 104 as desired, using the process described above. The ball throwing machine 10 may then be used to project the ball in high, arcing trajectories needed for fielding practice, for example, long fly balls or pop-up balls.

As a option, means may be provided for further securing the ball throwing machine 10 to the base 100. For example, FIG. 8 illustrates a portion of the crossbar 14 and the upper cross rail 132. An elastic retaining strap 150, made of a material such as natural or synthetic rubber, is wrapped around the two members. The upper cross rail 132 is provided with a fixed pin 152 (for example, the pin 152 could be welded to a front face of the upper cross rail 132 and protrude outward therefrom). The retaining strap 150 has a row of holes 154 formed therein. The retaining strap 150 can be secured by placing one end over the pin 152, wrapping around the two members, and then securing the opposite end over the pin. One retaining strap 150 and pin 152 can be provided near each distal end of the crossbar 14. One end of the retaining strap 150 may be permanently left attached to the pin 152, and the opposite end simply hooked or unhooked from the pin 152 as required. The retaining straps 150 are helpful in preventing the ball throwing machine 10 from bouncing out of engagement with the frame 100, when the frame 100 is being rolled over rough ground.

As an alternative to the mounting method described above, the ball throwing machine 10 could be fastened directly to the upper cross rail 132. This may be desirable when a more permanent connection between the frame 100 and the ball throwing machine 10 is desired. For example, FIG. 9 shows the ball throwing machine 100 with the crossbar 14 removed. The front end of the beam 12 is then connected to the upper cross rail 132 using the bolt which is a part of the ball throwing machine 10.

FIG. 10 shows how the upper cross rail 132 could be modified for this mounting method. A nut 156 or other threaded fastener is secured to the upper cross rail 132 so that it cannot turn, for example by welding, swaging, or adhesive bonding. A hole (not shown) is formed through the upper cross rail 132, aligned with the bore of the nut 156. The beam 12 abuts the upper cross rail 132. The bolt (labeled 158) passes through the beam 12 and engages the threads of the nut 156. The bolt 158 can be tightened or loosened using the hand knob 15.

The foregoing has described a base for a ball throwing machine. While specific embodiments of the present invention have been described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications thereto can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing description of the preferred embodiment of the invention and the best mode for practicing the invention are provided for the purpose of illustration only and not for the purpose of limitation. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A base for a ball throwing machine having a T-shaped frame, the base comprising: a lower frame; an upper frame pivotally connected to the lower frame so as to be moveable through a range of elevation angles relative to the lower frame, and including one or more brackets configured to receive the T-shaped frame of the throwing machine; and an adjustment mechanism configured to releasably secure the upper frame at a selected elevation angle within the range.
 2. The base of claim 1 wherein the adjustment mechanism comprises: an adjustment post mounted to the lower frame; an elevation bracket carried by the upper frame which engages the adjustment post; and a fastener engaged with the adjustment post and the elevation bracket.
 3. The base of claim 2 wherein the adjustment post has a plurality of spaced-apart adjustment holes formed therein.
 4. The base of claim 2 wherein the adjustment post is pivotally mounted to the lower frame.
 5. The base of claim 1 wherein the lower frame includes at least one wheel mounted on a wheel support arm extending at an acute angle from the lower frame.
 6. The base of claim 1 wherein the upper frame includes: a transverse upper forward cross rail disposed at a front end of the upper frame, with two-spaced apart front mounting holes formed therein; and an aft bracket disposed at a rear end of the upper frame, the aft bracket defining a forward-facing pocket.
 7. The base of claim 6 wherein the upper frame includes a pair of laterally spaced- apart forward brackets disposed at a front end thereof
 8. The base of claim 1 wherein the upper frame includes: a pair of laterally spaced-apart forward brackets disposed at a front end thereof; and an aft bracket disposed at a rear end of the upper frame, the aft bracket defining a forward-facing pocket.
 9. The base of claim 1 wherein the upper frame includes: a transverse upper forward cross rail disposed at a front end of the upper frame, with two-spaced apart front mounting holes formed therein; an elastic retaining strap having opposed first and second ends, the first end attached to the upper forward cross rail; and an aft bracket disposed at a rear end of the upper frame, the aft bracket defining a forward-facing pocket.
 10. The base of claim 1 wherein the upper frame includes: a transverse upper forward cross rail disposed at a front end of the upper frame, with two-spaced apart front mounting holes formed therein, the upper forward cross rail having a threaded fastener fixedly attached thereto; and an aft bracket disposed at a rear end of the upper frame, the aft bracket defining a forward-facing pocket.
 11. A ball throwing apparatus, comprising: a ball throwing machine comprising a T-shaped frame, with means for throwing a ball mounted thereon; and a base, comprising: a lower frame; an upper frame pivotally connected to the lower frame so as to be moveable through a range of elevation angles relative to the lower frame, and including one or more brackets that secure the T-shaped frame of the throwing machine to the upper frame; and an adjustment mechanism configured to releasably secure the upper frame at a selected elevation angle within the range.
 12. The apparatus of claim 11 wherein the adjustment mechanism comprises: an adjustment post mounted to the lower frame; an elevation bracket carried by the upper frame which engages the adjustment post; and a fastener engaged with the adjustment post and the elevation bracket.
 13. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein the adjustment post has a plurality of spaced-apart adjustment holes formed therein.
 14. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein the adjustment post is pivotally mounted to the lower frame.
 15. The apparatus of claim 11 wherein the lower frame includes at least one wheel mounted on a wheel support arm extending at an acute angle from the lower frame.
 16. The apparatus of claim 11 wherein: the frame of the ball throwing machine includes a pair of spaced-apart spikes extending downward from a front end of the frame, and a rear foot disposed at a rear end of the frame; and the upper frame includes: a transverse upper forward cross rail disposed at a front end of the upper frame, with two-spaced apart front mounting holes formed therein that receive the spikes; and an aft bracket disposed at a rear end of the upper frame, the aft bracket defining a forward-facing pocket which receives the rear foot.
 17. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein: the frame of the ball throwing machine includes a pair of spaced-apart front feet disposed at a front end of the frame; and the upper frame includes a pair of laterally spaced-apart forward brackets disposed at a front end thereof which bear against the front feet.
 18. The apparatus of claim 11 wherein: the frame of the ball throwing machine includes a pair of spaced-apart front feet disposed at a front end of the frame, and a rear foot disposed at a rear end of the frame; and the upper frame includes: a pair of laterally spaced-apart forward brackets disposed at a front end thereof which bear against the front feet; and an aft bracket disposed at a rear end of the upper frame, the aft bracket defining a forward-facing pocket which receives the rear foot.
 19. A ball throwing apparatus, comprising: a ball throwing machine comprising a beam including forward and aft ends, the beam having with means for throwing a ball mounted thereon; and a base, comprising: a lower frame; an upper frame pivotally connected to the lower frame so as to be moveable through a range of elevation angles relative to the lower frame, wherein the upper frame includes: a transverse upper forward cross rail disposed at a front end of the upper frame, the upper forward cross rail having a threaded first fastener fixedly attached thereto; an aft bracket disposed at a rear end of the upper frame, the aft bracket defining a forward-facing pocket which receives the aft end of the frame; a threaded second fastener engaging the first fastener and the forward end of the beam, thereby holding the forward end of the beam against the upper forward cross rail; and an adjustment mechanism configured to releasably secure the upper frame at a selected elevation angle within the range. 